During a meeting at the party’s secretariat in Abeokuta, the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, Sikirullai Ogundele, attributed the party’s loss in the 2023 governorship election to the alleged authoritarian behavior of its governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu.
Ogundele accused Adebutu of fueling internal strife within the party, asserting that his disregard for party leadership and authoritative conduct were significant factors contributing to the party’s absence from power.
He remarked, “The primary reason behind our current lack of governmental authority is the conduct of Hon. Ladi Adebutu. Approximately 90% of the challenges we face as a party can be attributed to him, primarily due to his authoritarian approach and refusal to heed advice.”
“Adebutu has been the primary factor contributing to the party’s decline since the 2019 election. I doubt Adebutu himself is genuinely aspiring to become governor.
“Atiku visited Abeokuta twice to persuade Adebutu to include OGD (former governor Gbenga Daniel) on the ballot, but Adebutu declined. Had we included OGD (Daniel) on the ballot, the party could have secured numerous seats in the election.
“Everyone was aware that Atiku made two visits to Ogun State to appeal to him (Adebutu). Even Obasanjo implored him, but he remained steadfast in his position.”
He has pledged to reclaim the party’s organization from Adebutu, emphasizing that the PDP should not be treated as anyone’s private asset.
Ogundele emphasized that the PDP must operate as a political entity that is equitable and impartial to all members, regardless of their financial status or rank.
In addition, Adekunle Akinlade, the party’s deputy gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 election, stressed the need for the party to undergo significant restructuring to secure victory over the ruling party in 2027.
“What we’re advocating for is a comprehensive repositioning of the party if we intend to secure victory or perform better in 2027. We need to integrate everyone into the party, ensuring that all members feel welcome and valued.
“We must leave the past behind, including the events of 2023, and unite to build a formidable front capable of tackling whatever challenges lie ahead.
“The party should prioritize discipline, and our leaders must exhibit the right temperament and moral character,” stated Akinlade.
In response, Adebutu dismissed Ogundele’s remarks as a “desperate plea from someone seeking personal gain.”
Adebutu, speaking through his spokesperson, Afolabi Orekoya, expressed his indifference towards Ogundele’s accusations and stated his refusal to engage in a dispute with him.
“The chairman’s remarks are his own views. Considering there are 57 members in the state executive council, if only the chairman is making such claims, it suggests there may be underlying factors.
“We are not inclined to address his statements as he appears to be on his own path. He was the sole state executive member present at the meeting out of 57, indicating that his stance may not be representative.
“Adebutu was not involved in the disruptions or violence during the Sagamu elections, nor did he influence court judgments.
“Ogundele’s grievances appear to be motivated by personal gain and ambition, but we remain unfazed and unsurprised,” remarked Orekoya.
